Bombardier Welcomes Senegal Airlines to the Family of Q400 NextGen Turboprop Operators in Africa

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft today welcomed Dakar-based Senegal Airlines to the family of Q400 NextGen aircraft customers and operators. Senegal Airlines, the national flag carrier of Senegal, started service today with a Q400 NextGen turboprop airliner wet-leased from Falcon Aviation Services LLC of Abu Dhabi. The aircraft is one of two that were ordered under a firm purchase agreement between Bombardier and Falcon announced in February 2014.

Senegal Airlines has joined more than 50 customers and operators of Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft worldwide, and has become the 16th member of the family in Africa.

As announced in July 2014, Falcon and Bombardier have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in which they will jointly address the need in Africa for several modern, high-quality aircraft solutions which meet international standards. The entry-into-service of the Q400 NextGen aircraft with Senegal Airlines is the first example of the collaboration arranged under the MOU.

“With the assistance of Falcon, this wonderful Bombardier Q400 NextGen airliner will help us expand our fleet with a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft that has proven to be a robust, reliable and flexible performer in sub-Sahara Africa,” said Mayoro Racine, Chief Executive Officer, Senegal Airlines. “Our passengers will appreciate the quiet comfort of its interior, and the aircraft’s speed will permit us to offer a seamless service between it and our larger jet aircraft.”

“We are delighted that we were selected to supply a Q400 NextGen aircraft to support the development of Senegal Airlines' fleet,” said Captain Mahmoud Ismael, Chief Operating Officer, Falcon Aviation Services. “Safe operations are essential for the further development of the air transport system in Africa and the Q400 NextGen aircraft fits the criteria we have established for this venture. We anticipate more successful placements of Q400 NextGen aircraft into Africa in the near future.”

“Yet another African operator has selected the Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft, which has become the most popular new-generation turboprop on the continent,” said Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “We look forward to further collaboration with Falcon to expand our presence in Africa.”